Overlooked Ministry

"As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:10

When I came to Taiwan my aim of ministry was leaving a Christ-like impression on the children.  But now I look back on it, I see so many wonderful things I have overlooked.

My time here teaching the kids and playing with them aren't the only ways I can minister. God has graciously opened my eyes to all the different and fun ways I could invest in fellow co-workers, teammate, and peers. You may not think much of it, but when I go out with a friend for a coffee date to sit down, relax, and talk about life, it's a good way of ministering/discipleship.  Going out into the field to preach the gospel to lost people, and hearing out the hardship of a family member of Christ in a coffee shop are both good. Neither one is better than the other. 

I used to think that the only way to minister is to go out into the boonies, where people use leaves and flowers as clothing, where the sun never rises, and you never know if you will be martyred. But that's not true, it's not the only way. If you're like me, please stop beating yourself up. God sends us fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to disciple and minister too. Your spiritual needs are extremely important to God!  He has been teaching me not to neglect my brothers/sisters in Christ..."for His sake." 

Next time you feel guilty for going out with a friend instead of doing intensive field laboring for Jesus. don't.  Jesus also spent time with His disciples alone, even when there was a crowd of people mobbing for His attention and affection. "...especially unto them who are of the household of faith." 

Rebecca Thornton is currently serving in Chiayi under VOICE Missions. She enjoys drawing anime, manga, cosplaying, and chasing after animals.